AS Roma consider Everton defender amid summer rebuild plans – Friedkin special possible

AS Roma are considering Everton left-back Vitaliy Mykolenko as part of their plans for the upcoming summer transfer window.

According to Forza Roma, the Everton defender features on sporting director Frederic Massara’s shortlist as the club prepares for multiple summer departures.

Roma targeting low-cost reinforcements ahead of summer rebuild

Roma are expecting several first-team departures at the end of the season. Financial limitations are currently shaping the club’s rebuild strategy.

That’s led sporting director Frederic Massara to prioritise affordable, ready-made options who can immediately strengthen the squad without requiring major investment. Mykolenko would be among the more suitable characters.

Roma believe Mykolenko could step straight into their starting XI, particularly given the appeal of a potential free transfer.

Everton’s contract stance complicates potential deal

Reports, though, have indicated that neither Everton or Mykolenko are planning to part ways this summer.

Speaking in November, Mykolenko dismissed suggestions he was unwilling to negotiate a new Everton deal, insisting he remains happy at the club.

“That I don’t want to negotiate (a contract) with Everton is a complete lie, because we just haven’t talked about it yet,” he explained.

“I know my agent will be talking to Everton representatives soon. I don’t even think about it because I like to play for this club, I get a kick out of it here, that’s the most important thing for me. My family is comfortable living here. Basically, there is nothing more to say.

“It doesn’t affect me at all. I know how the coaching staff feels about me, how the club feels about me.”

Ukrainian outlet Express also explained that Everton planned to use a contract clause to extend his deal until 2027. That would set them up to sell the defender this summer rather than lose him on a free.

Friedkin group ownership could influence negotiations

For now, Roma are expected to monitor the situation closely as they weigh up their summer options.

They’re bracing themselves for a summer of exits, all on free transfers, forcing them to also rely on low-cost deals or free transfers. It’s unlikely Everton would let them get Mykolenko on a free, though.

Instead, perhaps there is a deal there to be done between the two clubs given their shared ownership under the Friedkin group.

For now, Roma are likely to just monitor the situation and continue to assess their options. But Mykolenko is an option that Massara is evaluating what they can and cannot do.